Those so called “dangers” of blogging online really don’t freak me out. I understand that yes, there are crazy people out there who like to stalk others or want to hurt them. If you set your privacy settings correctly, then you have nothing to fear from unknown scary people. I think the only reason having a blog, posting things, and letting others read or view them is anywhere near dangerous is because too many of the blog users don’t understand how to set privacy and account settings.
When I read that people could use a search engine to find your site or use your site to look up your own personal information, I did get concerned. However, I don’t have anything bad on my sites. Too many times it was stated that possible candidates for job positions weren’t hired because of blog content. This does not concern me and I honestly think those people were idiots to put that stuff up on the web anyway. Of course anyone can view it! I don’t have bad stuff on my site; and, after reading this, I actually went on my web log sites to check on my account and privacy settings.
My first stop was Xanga. I hardly use it anymore, but it was definitely worth checking on. I noticed in privacy settings they actually ask if it is ok that your site be found through search engines and I quickly changed it to “no!” It was also possible for anyone who knew my name, my username, or even my email to find my site. It was completely unprotected! I was amazed at how much was available to other people so they could search and view my site. I immediately went to my other sites and fixed them up too. Now, I definitely don’t have to worry about any unwanted visitors to my sites. Only my friends or people I allow could ever see them. I would never have thought about it if I hadn’t read that it was so easy for an individual to find your site.
Honestly, I think this isn’t a huge issue unless you’re dumb enough to put stupid, illegal, or porn-like stuff on your site. If you don’t have your privacy settings strict, but you don’t have stuff that like on your site then you don’t have as much to worry about. However, if you’re like me and actually checked out what all was available in the privacy settings and fixed them for limited viewing, then you’re worry-free pretty much. It’s only a big deal if you make it that way and leave yourself vulnerable. Huzzah for online safety smarts!
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4 comments:
this is a very "sound" reflection Mandy; it's exactly like walking in New York City at night - very safe unless you are doing something totally stupid like being drunk and flashing your money and being in a dark alley!
wow, I'm shocked that a popular website, Xanga, could allow its user's materials to be so unrestricted! You have a well-developed understanding of the essay and the personal reference was very invigorating. It was a wonderful reflection, by the way, and I hope this experience has helped you to be more aware of the "pitfalls" of the internet.
I completely agree with you. Your information is only as safe as you let it be. It also makes perfect sense to be aware of what you are posting and to protect yourself! Those out there posting are often too young to really be aware of the dangers of posting such information, so we must hope that the parents are actively involved in their children’s use of the Internet and posting sights.
I am also a firm believer in privacy and respecting the rights of others. I believe that websites and “share-sites” should really default to secure settings and allow you to make it accessible to others if you like. Sometimes finding your privacy settings and knowing what to click and what not to can be a challenge for someone who is not a computer whiz. I hope in the future these sites will cater more to the needs and safety of the consumer and we should all take heed and make sure we are safe when posting or working online.
lol - great title by the way
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